Out Christian singer Jennifer Knapp performs Thursday

Pastor Ray Waters of The Village, said his “welcoming and affirming” congregation, which is not affiliated with any denomination, is thrilled to host Knapp.“I have always loved her music, honesty and song writing abilities,” Waters said. “I also admire that she had the courage to come out as a lesbian and not deny her faith in God.”

The Village currently has about 400 members with approximately 200 in attendance each Sunday, Waters said.

“We are a church that is open to all people,” he said. “We do not want to label ourselves as a totally gay or straight church. We want a place where everyone, regardless of their sexual orientation or background, can come and worship together as a family.”

The church’s current membership is about 25 percent LGBT, and Waters said he wants gay attendance — like all attendance — to increase.

“We would like to see those numbers grow as we would like to see our numbers grow over all,” he said. “Everyone is welcome…our slogan is a Perfect Place for People who aren’t!”

You can check out Knapp’s music here:

Top photo: After making her name in the Christian music scene, Jennifer Knapp returned from a nine-year hiatus and is now an out lesbian. (by Eye Photography)